New Orleans Saints receiving core is destined for greatness in 2022
By Jonny Camer
The New Orleans Saints offense was looking absolutely miserable through the first three quarters. However, this offense came alive in the fourth quarter, with Jameis Winston throwing for 212 yards and two touchdowns. It was a fantastic display by the trio of Michael Thomas, Jarvis Landry, and Chris Olave. They looked like monsters, making the Atlanta Falcons' defense look silly. If the fourth quarter showed anything, it's that this trio is capable of big things this season.
It was looking very dull for Saints star receiver Michael Thomas. He had only one catch for the first three quarters. Thomas, however, went into overdrive in the fourth quarter, hauling in four passes, two of which were touchdowns. It was everything you wanted to see from Thomas. His physicality was on point, just like the golden days of 2019.
He dominated A.J. Terrell in the fourth quarter and made the former second-team All-Pro look weak. Even in the first three quarters, Thomas was open a good amount. Some unfortunate miscues between him and Winston caused those targets not to be caught. Thomas had a great game and showed why they call him “Can’t Guard Mike.”
New Orleans Saints receivers shined bright in Week 1
The newly signed Louisanna native Jarvis Landry killed it in his Saints debut. A performance that flew under the radar, Landry had seven receptions and 114 yards, including a 40-yard bomb in the fourth quarter. The former LSU Tiger looked sharp and locked in the entire game. Some might even say he had the best performance on the field.
Lastly, Chris Olave made his NFL debut and looked pretty solid. He finished with three catches for 41 yards, including a clutch two-point conversion. It wasn't the most stat filler performance, but he still looked good for a rookie playing behind two great veterans. What really stood out was the separation the Ohio State product was able to create. He averaged 3.8 yards of separation per target.
The Saints face the Buccaneers on Sunday, and if they want to win that game, they're going to need another big performance from their receivers. If this past Sunday was any indication, the team's receivers are not only destined for a great game but greatness for the entire season.